Water restrictions in Memphis, TN — also called the watering schedule, outdoor irrigation rules, or drought ordinance — set which days and hours you can run sprinklers or irrigation.
Memphis is served by MLGW from the deep Memphis Sand aquifer and has no mandatory water-use restrictions or drought schedules. Voluntary conservation is encouraged during dry summers. MLGW offers rebates for efficient fixtures but does not impose watering-day rules.
Memphis draws drinking water from the Memphis Sand aquifer, one of the deepest and highest-quality urban aquifers in the United States. Unlike Western U.S. cities with mandatory watering schedules, Memphis has no ordinance restricting outdoor irrigation days, times, or volumes for residential customers. MLGW encourages voluntary conservation and offers rebates for WaterSense-labeled toilets and efficient showerheads. During prolonged drought or distribution incidents, MLGW may issue voluntary conservation advisories, but mandatory watering bans are rare. Humid subtropical climate with 54 inches of annual rainfall reduces irrigation demand compared to Western cities. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) regulates aquifer withdrawal permits but does not impose residential rationing. Homeowners should still use efficient irrigation practices: water early morning, use drip for beds, and repair leaks promptly. Outdoor water bans are not tied to HOA rules beyond landscape-maintenance standards.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Memphis's water restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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